Roth, at 79, was still active in business and a civic leader known by many, though his son, Michael, and daughter, Melinda have taken over operations of the nine supermarkets and catering business.

Roth co-founded the company in 1962, and bought out his partner in 1973. It began with a single store in Silverton.

The grocery store has had a presence in McMinnville since 1969. In the fall of 2004, the market on South Baker Street received a $2.5 million facelift. Orville declared it a 21st century store at the time. Michael and Melinda were responsible for the interior design, stating they gave it the feel of a European market.

On Monday, Mid-Valley leaders and members of the business community remembered the man who liked to call himself the CCC - Chief Courtesy Clerk.

“I was always so impressed with his friendliness and customer service whenever I would shop," former Salem Mayor Janet Taylor told the Stateman. "Once I became more involved with the community, I began to know him professionally, and he was an excellent businessman as well.”

“He really loved that place, he loved his customers and he loved his business. He will be missed,” Michael Roth said. He told the Statesman a public service might be held at The Oregon Garden, but nothing was definite yet.